Living in the Shadow of Transience
The fundamental teaching echoed in the words of Abdülkadir Geylani (may Allah be pleased with him) is that this worldly life is a temporary and deceptive veil. People often turn their eyes towards this world, desire pre-existing possessions, and indulge in readily available blessings. However, one must awaken from this state of heedlessness; for everything will eventually end. The possessions we have, our relationships, and even comforts are fleeting. These separations may be unexpected and catch us unprepared, because worldly life is not ours, but rather a realm of examination (imtiḥān). Remembering the reality of the afterlife diminishes the meaning of these worldly pursuits and directs us towards the path of truth.
The Slavery of the Nafs (Self) and Attaining Truth
Geylani’s emphasis is on the importance of humankind not being created for this world. Our true purpose is to prepare for the afterlife. However, we often fall prey to the desires of our nafs; passions consume us, and our emotions become toys. We ignore the nearness of death, trying to preserve our youth by dyeing our hair. The most important thing is to understand death and make spiritual preparations. We must strive to purify ourselves from the whispers of our nafs and open our hearts to Truth. This requires constant striving (cihād); disciplining the self and distancing oneself from worldly greed.
Return to Haqq (The Divine): The Health of the Heart and Sainthood (Wilayah)
Geylani draws attention to the importance of the health of the heart. The heart is a mirror that perceives divine knowledge. However, a heart filled with worldly greed cannot see Truth. Abandoning material possessions and focusing on spiritual orientations purifies the heart and leads to nearness to Haqq (The Divine). With this closeness, a deep peace and serenity arises within the individual’s inner world. Reaching the degree of sainthood (wilāyah), being illuminated by divine light, is possible; but for this, constant effort must be made and worldly love must be abandoned. Turning towards Haqq opens the doors to true wealth and brings both worldly and afterlife happiness.